Murray County Soil Data
Murray County, Oklahoma
Avg pH
6.1
Texture
Fine sandy loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
1.5%
Hydrologic Group
B
Data Story
About Soil in Murray County, Oklahoma
Alfisols Lead the Way in Murray
Murray County is dominated by Alfisols, a soil order known for its clay-enriched subsoil and relatively high fertility. The average pH of 6.11 is very close to the Oklahoma state average and only slightly below the national median. This creates a stable chemical environment for a wide variety of native vegetation.
The Balance of Fine Sandy Loam
The soil consists of 36.5% sand, 33.9% silt, and 21.4% clay, giving it a classic fine sandy loam texture. This mix offers an excellent balance between easy workability and enough clay to hold essential nutrients. It is a versatile composition that responds well to both manual gardening and mechanized farming.
Moderate Fertility and Water Retention
Organic matter levels average 1.55%, which is slightly lower than the state's 1.72% average. The available water capacity is also just under the state benchmark at 0.139 in/in. Local growers may find that adding compost helps boost these numbers toward more productive levels.
Reliable Drainage for Stable Building
The county benefits from well-drained soils and falls into hydrologic group B, indicating a moderate infiltration rate. This makes the land suitable for many construction projects and reduces the risk of root rot for sensitive crops. Rainwater moves through the profile effectively without leaving the surface saturated for long periods.
Thriving in the Murray 7b Climate
The 7b hardiness zone allows for a diverse range of plantings from hardy perennials to summer vegetables. Pecan trees and native grasses flourish in this well-drained Alfisol environment. It is a great time to plant a home orchard or start a sustainable vegetable patch.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group B — Moderate Runoff
Moderately deep, moderately well-drained soils with moderate infiltration rates. Good balance of drainage and water retention.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Fine sandy loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Murray County have?
Murray County's soil is classified as Fine sandy loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 36% sand, 34% silt, and 21% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Murray County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Murray County's soil has a pH of 6.1, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Murray County?
Murray County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Murray County's soil?
Based on Murray County's Fine sandy loam texture, pH of 6.1, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Murray County?
Murray County's dominant soil order is Alfisols. Alfisols are moderate to high base-status soils with a clay-enriched subsoil. They support productive forests and cropland across temperate regions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Murray County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Oklahoma
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.